Samuel Anderson

This 1811 portrait of Samuel Anderson at Perth Art Gallery records a figure from Perth’s professional or commercial community. Perth, as the historic capital of Scotland, maintained a modest but dignified social life that included portrait commissions from its leading citizens. Raeburn's distinctive 'square touch' technique applied oil paint in bold, direct strokes without underdrawing, building characterizations through decisive marks that gave his portraits an unusual physical immediacy...

Raeburn renders the sitter with characteristic directness and economy. The portrait’s bold handling and strong tonal contrasts create an immediate, vivid impression of the subject.